Monthly Archives February 2016

This week’s Spot Check is on this beautifully idyllic café which can be found at 16 Loop street in the heart of Cape Town. Although relatively new to the scene, Giulio’s boasts an impressive reputation, so naturally, we couldn’t wait to try it out.

The interior is modern but still homey with marble tops, brown leather seating, and pops of greenery scattered throughout. There is plenty of natural light and the spacious set-up feels very calming to dine in.

Giulio’s menu consists of hearty Mediterranean and Italian-inspired dishes that are certainly a treat for the taste buds, and for those looking for something a little lighter, you can tuck in to the harvest table which hosts a range of delicious salads and sandwiches. I had a freshly squeezed orange juice served in a carafe, and the Gemelli Twins (R22) which includes two eggs done how you like it and a slice of toast of your choice. I added extra avo and bacon, and it was a winner!

The service is pleasant and Giulio’s warm nature is felt throughout.

The new menu is kicking in in the next few weeks and if it’s anywhere near as good as the summer menu, you guys are in for a treat 🙂

I hope you guys are enjoying this segment, there are plenty more places for me to spend my money and eat copious amounts of good food at – all just for you 😉

This is a relatively new beauty item in the industry, especially to South Africa – shade adjusting drops! I know other brands, including The Body Shop, have these available overseas but I couldn’t wait for it to come here, and now they have!

If you’re not too sure of what I’m talking about then allow me to explain. Shade adjusting drops are used to adjust the shade of your foundation. Naturally, our skin goes a few shades darker or lighter depending on the season, and so many of us know the struggle of buying our favourite foundation in different shades to cope with this, and now we don’t have to.

I am so thrilled that we have access to this product now. A drop of this stuff alters the shade of your foundation by half a shade or more depending on how much product you apply to your face. So be patient and don’t go in with a heavy hand because this stuff goes a long way. I have seen reviews from people that say it changes the consistency of their foundation, however I haven’t noted that to be a deal breaker.

I find this product to be such a breath of fresh air, and I’m so glad that The Body Shop finally brought it to our shores! So if you buy expensive foundations and don’t want to buy every shade, or if you don’t want to have product that just sits there waiting for the next season to be used, then definitely give this a try.

I was recently invited by the lovely team at IYØS Jewellery to check out their Trollbeads and X Jewellery ranges. In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, I was asked to show myself some love and try on some of their amazing pieces and even pick an item to take home – lucky me! I felt just like Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman and I thought I’d share my experience with you guys 🙂

Trollbeads is the original brand that is famous for their personal and elegant jewellery pieces. What I loved about their concept is that you end up becoming the designer of your own jewellery, and you can make it as extravagant or as minimalist as you want; completely customisable. From necklaces to bracelets to earrings, you really feel like you’re wearing something totally unique.

Then came X Jewellery, which was created by Trollbeads and has a very similar idea. The difference with this brand is in the design which is centred around the concept of an anchor chain. Although customisable, the pieces make a strong statement, and this was done with the intention to “celebrate strong women”. You can choose between a rubber, bronze, or sterling silver chain, and once you’ve done that you can add your charms.

I decided to go for the Trollbeads silver chain bracelet. I then got to design my dream bracelet with all the charms I could possibly want, which I got a list of so my loved ones can know what to buy for me if they’re looking for a good gift *hint hint* 😉 Each charm tells a story and I find that so original.

Trollbeads silver bracelet, World Within bead

Definitely go and check out what IYØS has to offer if you’re looking to show yourself some love or if you’re looking for a gift for someone special. They have stores in Palmyra Junction, Gardens Centre, and Canal Walk Shopping Centre.

If there is one thing I know for sure about my city it’s that Cape Town will never run out of cool places to try out for coffee, food, live music, or decor if that’s what you’re into. Here is an oldie but a goodie:

Clarke’s diner on Bree street is a good stop for old school breakfasts, hearty lunches, and the occasional alcoholic beverage/s ;). The interior design is minimalist and cosy with a few share tables, a couple private ones too, and some beautiful greenery.

On this occasion I had a delicious burger served with pickled cucumber, the rolls are baked fresh everyday so that made it extra yummy, and we ordered a sneaky side of cheese fries *cue the drool*.

They offer great specials like a “Two for one” burger special on Tuesdays, a 5 – 6 happy hour on the daily, a R26 beer and shot (tequila or Jäger) special everyday, and they are open for First Thursday!